The Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis is home to one of the most spectacular glass art exhibitions in the world. The Chihuly Missouri Botanical Garden exhibit features the works of renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. The exhibit showcases Chihuly’s stunning glass sculptures, which are displayed throughout the garden’s 79-acre grounds. The exhibit is a must-see for anyone who appreciates art, nature, and the beauty of glass.
The Life and Work of Dale Chihuly
Dale Chihuly is an American glass artist who has been working with glass for over 50 years. He is known for his innovative techniques and his ability to create large-scale glass sculptures that are both beautiful and awe-inspiring. Chihuly’s work has been exhibited in museums and galleries around the world, and he has received numerous awards for his contributions to the field of glass art.
Chihuly’s work is characterized by its vibrant colors and organic shapes. He often draws inspiration from nature, and many of his sculptures resemble flowers, sea creatures, and other natural forms. Chihuly’s work is also known for its use of light and shadow, which adds an extra dimension to his already stunning creations.
The Chihuly Missouri Botanical Garden Exhibit
The Chihuly Missouri Botanical Garden exhibit features over 20 of Chihuly’s glass sculptures, which are displayed throughout the garden’s grounds. The sculptures range in size from small, delicate pieces to large, towering structures that reach up to 30 feet tall. Each sculpture is placed in a carefully selected location within the garden, creating a unique and immersive experience for visitors.
One of the most impressive sculptures in the exhibit is the “Sapphire Star.” This towering sculpture stands at over 30 feet tall and features hundreds of blue and green glass pieces that seem to shimmer in the sunlight. Another standout sculpture is the “Sunburst,” which features a series of yellow and orange glass pieces arranged in a circular pattern.
In addition to the outdoor sculptures, the exhibit also includes several indoor installations. These installations feature smaller glass pieces that are arranged in intricate patterns and designs. The indoor installations also showcase Chihuly’s use of light and shadow, with many of the pieces illuminated from within.
Exploring the Missouri Botanical Garden
The Chihuly Missouri Botanical Garden exhibit is just one of the many attractions at the Missouri Botanical Garden. The garden itself is a stunning display of nature’s beauty, with over 79 acres of gardens, conservatories, and other attractions.
Visitors can explore the Japanese Garden, which features a traditional teahouse and a large koi pond. The English Woodland Garden is another popular attraction, with its winding paths and beautiful collection of trees and shrubs. The Climatron conservatory is also a must-see, with its tropical plants and exotic flowers.
In addition to the gardens and conservatories, the Missouri Botanical Garden also features several educational exhibits and programs. Visitors can learn about the history of the garden and its founder, Henry Shaw, or attend a class on gardening or plant care.
Planning Your Visit
The Chihuly Missouri Botanical Garden exhibit is open from May through October each year. Admission to the exhibit is included with general admission to the garden, which costs $16 for adults and $10 for children ages 3-12. The garden is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, with extended hours during the summer months.
Visitors should plan to spend at least a few hours exploring the garden and the Chihuly exhibit. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the garden covers a large area and there is a lot to see. Visitors should also bring sunscreen, as many of the outdoor sculptures are located in open areas without shade.
Conclusion
The Chihuly Missouri Botanical Garden exhibit is a must-see for anyone who appreciates art, nature, and the beauty of glass. Dale Chihuly’s stunning glass sculptures are the perfect complement to the garden’s already impressive collection of plants and flowers. Visitors will be amazed by the vibrant colors and organic shapes of Chihuly’s work, and will leave with a new appreciation for the beauty of glass art.